Leeds United are interested in signing a “great” new player this summer and have already made contact, according to one Sky Sports reporter.
Leeds preparing for Oxford with Championship promotion a real possibility
The Whites have just four Championship fixtures remaining and are currently top of the table on goal difference ahead of Burnley.
More importantly, though, the gap to third place Sheffield United now sits at five points with the Blades losing their last three games against Oxford United, Millwall and Plymouth Argyle. Leeds still have to travel to both Oxford and Plymouth, with a clash with the former up next on Good Friday.
Leeds (88 pts)
Sheffield United (83 pts)
Burnley (88 pts)
Oxford United (a)
Cardiff City (h)
Watford (a)
Stoke City (h)
Burnley (a)
Sheffield United (h)
Bristol City (h)
Stoke City (a)
QPR (a)
Plymouth Argyle (a)
Blackburn Rovers (h)
Millwall (h)
A third win in a row for Daniel Farke’s side will see them need a maximum of four more points to guarantee promotion, with the manager looking for his side to be more ruthless in front of goal after the 2-1 win over Preston North End last time out.
“It feels pretty good after an exhausting week with three difficult games. It was a priceless three points for us. It was a really good performance and we could have made life easier by taking a few of our chances, it must have been one of our highest expected goals of the season. We should have scored six or seven.”
Leeds join race for "phenomenal" £45m striker who could be "next Harry Kane"
The Whites are set to battle it out for a forward, who has been praised for his finishing by England captain Harry Kane.
ByDominic Lund Apr 15, 2025
Joel Piroe is currently without a goal in his last eight Championship games, however, with Leeds close to promotion, transfer targets are being identified.
The club are unsure if Piroe and Patrick Bamford are Premier League quality, but someone who the Whites do like is a Germany international who plays in midfield.
Leeds in contact to sign Borussia Monchengladbach captain Weigl – Sky Sports
According to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, Leeds have made initial contact over a deal to sign Borussia Monchengladbach captain Julian Weigl.
Weigl earns a minimum of £50,000-a-week in Germany and has worked under Farke before, with the pair still having a “good relationship”.
The 29-year-old, who can play as a holding midfielder, central midfielder or even as a centre-back, would only move to Elland Road if Premier League football is on offer, Plettenberg adds.
Reports elsewhere from Sky Germany have said it would be an “expensive deal” for the Whites to sign Weigl, who Farke praised back in 2023.
“Julian is a great footballer and person. He could enrich many teams with his qualities.”
Now, it looks as if a reunion between the pair could be on the cards, making this one to keep an eye on.
Glasgow Rangers’ foray deep into the Europa League this season is vital not only in restoring pride after a dismal domestic season but also in boosting the club’s finances ahead of next term.
Of course, the prize money in Europe’s second-tier club competition is nowhere near as lavish compared to the Champions League, and this is something that the Ibrox side must strive for next term.
Ally McCoist speaking to Barry Ferguson for TNT Sports.
Indeed, reaching the quarter-finals in the Europa League has seen the Gers win £2.1m, which is added to the £3.6m they claimed after reaching the group stages.
In comparison, those in the Champions League have netted £10.8m for reaching the same stage, with a win in the group stages being valued at £1.8m, proving how much of a gulf there is between the two competitions.
Having not qualified for the Champions League proper since the 2023/23 season – finishing bottom of the group without a win – it is clear that the Light Blues need to reach this stage again to bolster their coffers.
If not, at least selling a player or two for a sizeable fee will help make up the shortfall hopefully. Since 2022, only three players have departed the Gers for a solid profit; Nathan Patterson, Joe Aribo, and Calvin Bassey.
The latter became the club’s record sale when he moved to Ajax from Glasgow, but just how much did they receive for the defender?
How much Rangers sold Calvin Bassey for
After making just 15 appearances during his maiden season at the club, nobody at Ibrox thought that a year later he would be joining one of Europe’s most iconic clubs for a record fee.
Originally looked at as a potential long-term heir to Borna Barisic at left-back, Bassey was called upon to slot into the heart of the defence alongside Connor Goldson due to an injury crisis.
Calvin Bassey
This turned out to be one of the best things to happen to the Nigerian international defender. He went on to play a total of 50 games for the Gers that term, winning the Scottish Cup and helping them reach the Europa League final during the 2021/22 season.
He won 64% of his ground duels per game throughout the heroic run to Seville that season, while also being dribbled past on just 0.2 occasions each game for the Light Blues.
His form attracted the interest of Ajax, who wanted to bring Bassey to the Netherlands ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Eventually, they got their man, signing him for a fee of just under £23m, including an initial fee of £19.6m, which is still a club-record sale for the Glasgow side.
Player
Transfer fee
Calvin Bassey
£19.6m
Nathan Patterson
£11.5m
Alan Hutton
£9m
Giovanni Van Bronckhorst
£8.5m
Jean-Alain Boumsong
£8m
This allowed Giovanni Van Bronckhorst to strengthen his squad by using the funds, although the club failed to win a trophy that term.
Bassey has since gone from strength to strength since departing Ibrox, however.
Calvin Bassey is now starring in the Premier League
While his spell at Ajax didn’t quite go to plan, Bassey moved to Fulham in the Premier League back in 2023 and has impressed during his two seasons with the Cottagers.
He has already featured 31 times under Marco Silva this term, scoring twice in the process, and has been a key member of the squad that looks set to seal a top-half finish in the Premier League.
Still only 25, if he continues to perform like he has done this season, a move to a better club could crop back up sooner rather than later, as he has been a regular for the Cottagers in their push into the top half of the table.
His sale was the biggest in Rangers history. Could the emergence of one player this season see the Gers replicate this masterclass? Nicolas Raskin could command a massive fee if he moves on from Ibrox in the upcoming summer transfer window.
What is Nico Raskin’s transfer value
TEAMtalk reported last month that English sides Aston Villa and Leeds United are showing some interest in the Belgian midfielder ahead of the summer transfer window.
He has been a mainstay in the starting XI since coming back into the squad just weeks into the new season after injury had hampered his pre-season. Since then, he has scored against Celtic, captained the Gers and even made his full international debut for Belgium.
Hardly a bad few months and TEAMtalk suggest that Rangers will be seeking a fee of around £20m should they even consider selling him this summer.
If they do, it will be a massive profit on the £1.3m transfer fee they shelled out in January 2023, that’s for sure, and would follow in Bassey’s footsteps as another gem signed on the cheap before being sold for roughly £20m.
The question is, will he want to leave so soon? Or is another season at Ibrox perhaps the best for his development as a player?
Why Nico Raskin is worth £20m
This valuation is best attested by his performances in the Europa League for Rangers this term. Not only does the Belgian average 3.5 tackles per game, but he also recovers 7.5 balls, wins 6.4 total duels, and averages 1.1 key passes each match in Europe.
When compared to his positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues, Raskin even ranks in the top 1% for tackles (4.02), the top 11% for interceptions (1.55), and in the top 13% for aerials won (1.75) per 90 across the previous 365 days.
These statistics clearly prove why there are a few English clubs showing interest in him and it won’t be long before he moves on from Rangers.
Kris Boyd dubbed the former Standard Liege starlet as “unbelievable” following the 1-1 draw between Rangers and Tottenham Hotspur back in December, and he has improved massively since then.
He, alongside the likes of Hamza Igamane, Mohamed Diomande, and Jefte, could all be players who eventually rake in significant profits for the Light Blues in the next few years.
Nicolas Raskin
Celtic have shown how effective a player trading model can be, selling Jota, Matt O’Riley and Kieran Tierney for massive fees in the previous few years.
Raskin might just be the catalyst for the Ibrox side, especially if he does leave during the summer transfer window. if so, then expect a fee close to, if not higher, than the one Bassey was sold for.
Rangers messed up selling "mountain" who is better than Propper
Rangers sold a player last year who is better than Robin Propper.
According to broadcast giant ESPN, Arsenal are demanding a major concession from Thomas Partey as talks continue over a new contract for the midfielder.
Thomas Partey could now stay at Arsenal with talks ongoing
The £200,000-per-week star has stayed relatively injury-free throughout an impressive 2024/2025 campaign which has seen him dazzle in multiple roles under Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal deal "done" as Berta awaits Kroenkes green-light for £51m signing
The Gunners owners are currently holding up a move.
ByEmilio Galantini Apr 24, 2025
Utilised at right-back during the absences of key players, as well as partnering the likes of Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard in midfield to great effect, Partey’s been one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers throughout the season.
Last term, the Ghana international could barely get a look-in due to fitness issues and falling down Arteta’s pecking order, and was widely tipped to leave the club four years after his £45 million transfer from Atlético Madrid.
However, this campaign, Partey has made more appearances than in any of his previous seasons at the Emirates Stadium, now proving indispensable to Arteta.
Bournemouth (home)
May 3rd
Liverpool (away)
May 11th
Newcastle United (home)
May 18th
Southampton (away)
May 25th
Partey’s resurgence has now sparked the club into action, with Arsenal opening talks to extend the 31-year-old’s contract as his current terms are due to expire this summer.
Arteta has confirmed to the press that he wants to keep Partey at the club for next season, with sporting director Andrea Berta now handed the task of agreeing an extension.
“Yes, there is progress with all the players. I’ll leave that to Andrea and the club to decide and to talk about,” said Arteta when asked if there has been progress over a new deal for Partey.
“The intention is very clear. I’ll leave that to Andrea and the club to take a step forward.”
If contract talks go south, Barcelona are among the clubs eyeing a Bosman deal for Partey, so the African won’t be short of prestigious options.
Arsenal demand major concession from Thomas Partey in contract talks
As per ESPN, it is now believed that Arsenal will demand one major concession from Partey in “any” deal for a new contract, despite his exceptional form.
The suggestion is its pretty non-negotiable, with the concession being that the midfielder will need to take a pay cut to remain in north London.
This comes as Arsenal attempt to finalise a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, and Berta is widely rumoured to also be negotiating fresh terms with the likes of Bukayo Saka, so it appears the club wish to trim their wage bill where possible.
Partey is keen to remain at Arsenal, according to credible news outlets like The Telegraph, but it remains to be seen whether he’s willing to be paid less than his illustrious teammates – especially considering he’s put in consistently outstanding performances throughout 2024/2025.
With their return to the Premier League on the horizon, Leeds United have now reportedly made their first enquiry about signing a Champions League winner for a club-record £40m fee.
Leeds set for crucial summer
As celebrations gradually begin to end around Yorkshire, all eyes will be on the summer transfer window. It’s one that the 49ers simply cannot afford to get wrong and one which must see them spend if they are to keep Leeds in the Premier League at the first time of asking.
For two consecutive seasons now, all three promoted sides have suffered instant relegation from the top flight. Southampton, Ipswich Town and Leicester City failed to learn from Luton Town, Sheffield United and Burnley before suffering themselves as a result. Now, Burnley, Leeds and one other club must avoid following that same path. They must break a concerning trend.
Time to go: 49ers must axe Leeds ace who's played even less than Schmidt
The Leeds United man who played less than Isaac Schmidt should be let go this summer.
ByDan Emery May 8, 2025
To do that, the 49ers will need to ensure that Daniel Farke’s side are robust enough for the Premier League. Compared to their style in the Championship, Leeds will have to suffer out of possession if they want to enjoy any success next season, whilst they may need to avoid falling into the trap of adopting the same modern style in possession that could yet earn Southampton an unwanted record.
The transfer window will, of course, play a large part in what happens next at Elland Road. If rumours are anything to go by, then the 49ers are ready to spend too. The likes of Beto have particularly threatened to steal the headlines this week as the Whites look to bolster their frontline.
Beto
The Everton forward endured a slow start to life at Goodison Park but has shown his quality under David Moyes. If Leeds want robust then he’d certainly offer that. Meanwhile, in the goalkeeper department, those at Elland Road have set their sights on the opposite end of Merseyside and signing an instant upgrade on Ilian Meslier.
Leeds make first enquiry to sign Kelleher
According to Graeme Bailey for Leeds United News, Leeds have now made their first enquiry about signing Caoimhin Kelleher from Liverpool, who are reportedly set to demand as much as £40m to sell their goalkeeper this summer.
With Alisson Becker staying put and Giorgi Mamardashvili on his way from Valencia, the Irishman is heading for the exit door at Anfield, potentially allowing Leeds to take advantage for what would be a club-record transfer fee.
Tsimikas and Kelleher
He may be Liverpool’s second-choice, but Kelleher hasn’t exactly seen his opportunities limited in recent seasons with Alisson continuing to struggle on the injury front. Any concerns that he wouldn’t be good enough to step up have quickly been put to bed in that time too, including against Real Madrid when he saved Kylian Mbappe’s penalty in a 2-0 victory back in November.
On a night to remember, Kelleher earned the praise of Liverpool boss Arne Slot, who dubbed his shot-stopper “outstanding”. For £40m, Leeds would be getting themselves a goalkeeper who’s ready to become a No.1 and an impressive one at that, after winning the Champions League, Premier League and domestic trophies throughout an excellent Liverpool tenure.
Wolverhampton Wanderers will head into the summer transfer window full of confidence that they can secure a top-half finish in the Premier League next season.
Much will depend on Vitor Pereira’s budget, however. Will he be allowed to spend big in order to carry on the momentum gained over the last few months?
There will certainly be a few sales when the window opens as he begins to build his squad.
The key question for the Molineux faithful: Will Matheus Cunha be at the club on the opening day of 2025/26?
Why Matheus Cunha is a wanted man this summer
If it wasn’t for Cunha’s output in the final third this season, Wolves may arguably have been in real danger of relegation.
The Brazilian has been in remarkable form, scoring 15 times in the top flight while chipping in with six assists in the process.
Not only does this account for 41% of the club’s total goals in the league, but he also ranks ninth in the Premier League for goals and assists.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' MatheusCunhacelebrates scoring their fourth goal
Despite this, Cunha has clashed with supporters on social media following a post he put up on his Instagram.
He even confessed that he wishes to leave in order to challenge for trophies, and if a big offer comes in, the forward may depart.
The forward currently earns £90k-per-week in the Midlands and, should he leave, this would help free up a big chunk of the wage budget for Pereira.
It does look likely he will move on from Wolves. But there is one player the manager should be actively trying to sell, especially considering he is earning more than the club’s talisman at the moment – Goncalo Guedes.
Why Goncalo Guedes must follow Cunha out the door
£35m signing Guedes was given a second chance at the club after returning from a loan spell last summer, but he hasn’t exactly taken the opportunity.
Across 31 games, he has registered ten goal contributions – five goals and five assists – but only two goals have come in the top flight.
He started in the 2-0 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion, but was subbed off after 59 minutes.
Goals
2
Assists
4
Shots per game
0.8
Key passes per game
0.4
Big chances created
2
Successful dribbles per game
0.2
During the game, he missed a big chance – notably firing a close-range effort over the far – failed to register a shot on target, failed with his only dribble attempt and won just a solitary duel against the Seagulls.
Due to his lethargic display, Guedes was given a match rating of just 5/10 by Birmingham World with journalist Charlie Haffenden noting that he ‘wasted two big chances in the opening ten minutes’ and was ‘not too involved afterwards’ which just about sums up his time at Molineux.
It’s safe to say that if this was an audition to secure his future at the club, he failed.
The Portuguese forward currently earns the same weekly wage as Cunha which given how differently the pair have performed this season, it is a rather remarkable fact.
=1
Goncalo Guedes
£90,000
£4,680,000
=1
Pablo Sarabia
£90,000
£4,680,000
=1
Matheus Cunha
£90,000
£4,680,000
4
Nelson Semedo
£80,000
£4,160,000
5
Hee-chan Hwang
£70,000
£3,640,000
With two years left on his current contract, this summer would be the ideal time for Pereira to cash in on the underperforming forward.
If so, he will be able to free up a big part of the wage bill in the process.
Wolves flop is now a Ballon d'Or contender and a bigger name than Cunha
Wolverhampton Wanderers must surely rue losing this talent who is now arguably better than Matheus Cunha.
Sunderland fans will be nervously counting down the days until Saturday’s Championship playoff final with only one huge match now standing in their way of Premier League glory.
There are some bad omens heading into the clash with Sheffield United, considering the Black Cats haven’t won on their last three visits to Wembley, but Regis Le Bris will pray his side can just get the job done by any means necessary in front of their raucous supporters.
Sunderland manager RegisLeBris on the touchline
It could also be another occasion where Daniel Ballard bails his team out in the most dramatic of fashions, with Sunderland entirely reliant on the ex-Arsenal man to guide them to the playoff final.
Ballard's astonishing heroics versus Coventry
If it wasn’t for Ballard popping up with a last-gasp header, the second leg tie against Coventry City would have headed to the nauseating lottery of penalties.
Thankfully, the Northern Irishman was in the perfect position to nod home Enzo Le Fee’s late corner kick, with the header undoubtedly leaving Coventry reeling, but it was a moment of unbelievable ecstasy for the Stadium of the Light to take in.
Ripping his shirt off in delight in the chaos that ensued, Ballard’s imposing presence from these scenarios could well be an effective weapon for Le Bris and Co to call upon for the final, particularly if it’s a tight and scrappy affair.
The Frenchman will also hope his attackers pack their shooting boots to try and upset the Blades on the biggest stage, with one promising forward player now actually worth the same as Ballard after he too played his part in Sunderland knocking out Frank Lampard’s Sky Blues.
The Sunderland star who's now worth as much as Ballard
Sunderland do have a whole host of sellable assets on their books, meaning promotion up to the Premier League will be key in attempting to keep the likes of Jobe Bellingham around for longer.
Ballard was even rumoured to be on the Blades’ shopping list once upon a time, but down the line, Sunderland number 12 Eliezer Mayenda could well be eyed up by some higher suitors himself with his performances for the Black Cats this season showing off a very promising striker that’s still got lots of room to improve.
He showed off his instinctive game when firing home the late winner in the first leg against Coventry, with Mayenda staying alert to any possible errors before rounding Ben Wilson confidently to finish off the gifted opportunity.
That would bump up his goal tally for the season to a nine strikes despite the 20-year-old only starting 22 Championship contests, with ex-Black Cats great Kevin Phillips even complimenting Mayenda as a “handful” after his winner at the CBS Arena.
The decision to snap up Mayenda for a measly £843k as a promising teenage talent has proven to be a steal, therefore, with the Zaragoza-born striker now worth around £3m according to Transfermarkt, which is the exact same value as Ballard.
Games played
48
Goals scored
9
Assists
5
Original value when joining
£843k
Value now
£3m
Much like Bellingham’s value has skyrocketed amongst other shrewd Black Cats buys, it’s not out of the question to assume Mayenda’s value will continue to rise and rise too, particularly if he becomes a Premier League player very soon.
Sunderland's Eliezer Mayenda celebrates scoring their first goal
Before anyone gets too carried away at the Stadium of Light and starts picturing top-flight utopia, however, the playoff final is obviously a nerve-wracking day out that will really test the resolve of Le Bris’ young squad.
But, it could also be the perfect time for his group to mature even more, with both Mayenda or Ballard no doubt ready to be heroes again if a chance falls their way.
Worth more than Hamer: Sunderland have struck gold with "sensational" star
Sunderland will hope this sensational ace can turn up at Wembley to steer to the Black Cats to promotion.
Arsenal are believed to be the main contenders to sign a former Manchester City star, with sporting director Andrea Berta now identifying him as one of his major summer priorities.
Arsenal urged to make "statement" striker signing amid Rodrygo talks
Kai Havertz is now back on the grass after what was thought to be a season-ending hamstring injury, but Gabriel Jesus’ severe ACL problem could still have him out until 2026.
Arsenal: Berta now targeting £80m Premier League star as Rodrygo talks stall
They’re having problems in pursuit of the Brazilian.
ByEmilio Galantini May 26, 2025
Over the second half of 2024/2025, Mikel Arteta has been forced to utilise midfielder Mikel Merino in an emergency striker role due to Arsenal’s shortage of options, and the Gunners often struggled to put teams away over a disappointing top flight campaign.
Arsenal drew more games than any other side in the Premier League top ten, with their lack of ruthlessness in the final third proving a very considerable worry. Berta has reportedly set his sights on a prolific striker for Arsenal this summer as a result.
19/20 – winter
£0
20/21 – summer
£81.5m
20/21 – winter
£900k
21/22 – summer
£156.8m
21/22 – winter
£1.8m
22/23 – summer
£121.5m
22/23 – winter
£59m
23/24 – summer
£208m
23/24 – winter
£0
24/25 – summer
£101.5m
24/25 – winter
£0
As per Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Arsenal are in concrete talks to sign Benjamin Sesko, with keen interest in Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres remaining as the club weigh up their best options.
Arsenal have also held talks over a move for Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, as they attempt to add more goals and assists to Arteta’s squad. Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, speaking to Football Insider recently, explained why the signing of a centre-forward and Rodrygo would be a “statement”.
“[Rodrygo] is a wide player – they need a number nine, but if you sign him and a number nine, that’s a real statement”, said the pundit.
“What it would cost you to get Rodrygo, and would he want to go to Arsenal, is two different things. The need for a number nine is pressing. Saka will play on the right-hand side, Rodrygo can play on the left – if you have those two as a wide pairing, that’s one hell of a pairing to fit in behind a world-class number nine.”
Arsenal now "strongest bidder" to sign Atlético Madrid star Julian Alvarez
The consensus has been that Arsenal’s statement striker signing this summer is likely to be one of Sesko or Gyokeres – but it is now believed that Atlético Madrid star Julian Alvarez is near the top of Berta’s transfer list as well.
Atletico Madrid'sJulianAlvarezscores a penalty during the penalty shootout wich is later disallowed after a VAR review
The Argentine is a relatively new target for Berta, just one year after his £82 million switch to Atlético from Eastlands, with Alvarez going on to enjoy a very impressive debut season for the Spanish heavyweights.
The 25-year-old World Cup winner, whose contract reportedly includes a £126 million release clause, couldn’t get in ahead of Erling Haaland in the City pecking order, but he’s since showcased his real quality with 29 goals and seven assists in all competitions throughout 2024/25.
He was a big-game player in his debut season at Atlético as well, scoring against the likes of Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, not to mention Barcelona in the top flight.
According to Spanish newspaper Marca and journalist David Medina, this has attracted Berta’s serious attention, who is now believed to be prioritising a deal for the South American. Arsenal have also emerged as the “strongest bidder” for Alvarez this summer, with Berta also playing a pivotal role in signing him for Atlético last summer, so he’s a player that the Gunners transfer chief already knows very well.
A serial winner who’s lifted nearly every major trophy just midway through his 20s, Alvarez is a very enticing target, with pundit Owen Hargreaves heaping praise on the centre-forward during his time at City.
“The thing about Alvarez, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him have a bad game,” Hargreaves said on TNT Sports in late 2023.
“He’s probably a natural centre forward but because of Haaland, you can play him up with him there, you can play him as the number 10. Obviously, with [Kevin] De Bruyne out injured.
“I think the thing that has stood out for me most is his set pieces. The quality on his corners and his crosses, and obviously his free-kick at the weekend.
The Premier League season may have finished over a week ago, but it’s been a busy seven days for Manchester United.
The Red Devils embarrassed themselves on their post-season Asia tour, but did at least leave with a win.
Since then, they have confirmed their first arrival of the summer in an attempt to appease the fans after a ridiculous season for all the wrong reasons.
Matheus Cunha has decided he wants a piece of the craziness unfolding at Old Trafford, leaving Wolverhampton Wanderers behind in a £62.5m deal.
Matheus Cunha
The Brazilian was exceptional for Wolves in 2024/25, scoring 17 goals in all competitions and also supplying five assists.
So, what’s next on the agenda?
Man United targeting another Premier League forward
As Ruben Amorim and Co desperately try to distract themselves from the lingering threat of Bruno Fernandes leaving England behind, wanted in Saudi Arabia, United are trying to strengthen their attacking ranks.
Cunha has already arrived but they did have Liam Delap in their crosshairs too before he reportedly agreed a move to Chelsea. Bryan Mbeumo is another Premier League star in line for a possible move to United.
Yet, their shortlist of players at English clubs doesn’t stop there according to TEAMtalk, who shared the latest on the club’s transfer plans on Monday morning.
They have reported that Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta is now at the top of their list to reinforce the centre-forward position.
It’s alleged that the Eagles could be willing to sell the Frenchman for a bargain fee of just £29m with the player’s contract set to expire in the summer of 2027.
Crystal Palace's Jean-PhilippeMatetacelebrates after the match
As a result, United are now expecting to make a ‘concrete move’ for Mateta in the coming days as Sir Jim Ratcliffe aims to beat competition from Serie A clubs, Juventus and AC Milan.
How Mateta could emulate Berbatov at Man United
Cast your mind back to the days of the Sir Alex Ferguson era and there was a certain aura about their transfer business.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
They’d look to the best talents in the top-flight to bolster their squad and they often had great success in doing so.
Think Wayne Rooney, think Rio Ferdinand, think Robin van Persie. Rooney and Rio quickly became modern-day greats after trading Everton and Leeds United for more luxurious pastures under Sir Alex.
Van Persie’s time at United was rather more short-lived but he was still the primary reason for their league title in 2012/13, the last time they won the league.
Another key component of previous title wins was Dimitar Berbatov who signed from Tottenham Hotspur in a deal worth £30m back in 2008.
2006/07 (Spurs)
33
12
9
2007/08 (Spurs)
36
15
11
2008/09 (Man Utd)
31
9
11
2009/10 (Man Utd)
33
12
6
2010/11 (Man Utd)
32
20
4
2011/12 (Man Utd)
12
7
0
2012/13 (Fulham)
33
15
3
2013/14 (Fulham)
18
4
1
Already, this is a deal that begins to echo a possible swoop for Mateta. Not only could he potentially arrive for a similar fee, but he’d also be signing from another Premier League club.
In the campaign prior to moving up north, Berbatov was on fire for Spurs, scoring 15 league goals in 36 games and netting 23 in all competitions.
Mateta, funnily enough, found the net at a similarly frequent rate for Oliver Glasner’s side this season, bagging 14 times in 37 matches. He also scored 16 in 35 throughout 2023/24.
Hailed as “one of the best centre forwards in the league over the last two seasons” by the aforementioned Rooney, there’s more than just their goal rate and possible transfer fee that makes this move so similar.
Indeed, while the Palace star is most definitely more direct, pacey and physical in his approach, they do share some similar traits.
Berbatov was known for being a laid-back striker, someone who didn’t really look too bothered. However, he had a touch of class about him. His first touch was immense, coasting through games and coming alive in the key moments.
Mateta certainly has a similar play style in that regard. Off the ball, Mateta might look slightly more cumbersome but when he gets the ball, it all changes.
Thierry Henry, who managed the 27-year-old at the Olympics, outlined that best. Speaking at the Paris games last summer, he said: “He’s an old-fashioned striker, you can play a little more direct. He can keep the ball. He’s a boring striker to play against, he doesn’t lose the ball much, and he goes at the last defender. He uses his physicality, he’s good with his head, and he scores.”
United’s former Bulgarian was certainly cut from a similar cloth. He could hold the ball up exceptionally well and was incredibly difficult to dispossess. He was old-fashioned too.
So, while Mateta would provide more pace and energy than Berbatov ever did at United, their shared deceptive intelligence, clever movement and classy nature are all very similar. You can just imagine the former United forward scoring the goal below, firing home without a care in the world.
He’d be a certain upgrade on the floundering Rasmus Hojlund. The Dane only netted ten goals in 52 matches this season. They cannot rely on that again next term.
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This summer presents a new era at Tottenham Hotspur, after Thomas Frank was appointed as their new boss after agreeing a £10m compensation package with Brentford.
The Dane takes the reins from Ange Postecoglou after the Aussie was handed his marching orders by owner Daniel Levy despite ending their 17-year wait for a trophy in the Europa League final.
It presents a fresh opportunity for the club to take the next step in their ambitions of mounting a charge for the Premier League title, with Frank the next man to try his luck in North London.
However, if he is to be a success in the role, he will need new additions this summer to help him in his quest, with quality and depth needed in key areas of the pitch.
Numerous players have already emerged on their radar in recent weeks, but additions can only be made if Levy hands Frank the funds needed to change their fortunes on the pitch.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Bryan Mbeumo is a player who’s been firmly on their radar since the Dane’s appointment, potentially having a reunion with his former boss at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium next season.
However, if they’re going to complete a deal for the 25-year-old attacker, they will have to fork out a pretty penny for his signature, with the Bees demanding £70m to part ways with him this window.
Brentford's BryanMbeumocelebrates scoring their first goal
The hierarchy already appear to be making moves elsewhere, with work being done to secure a deal for Palmeiras midfielder Richard Rios, according to GIVEMESPORT’s latest update.
The report states that Spurs have sent scouts to watch the Colombian international at the Club World Cup, starring in his first game against Porto – completing more dribbles than any player on the pitch.
It also claims that the 25-year-old has a £85m release clause within his current contract, with the hierarchy confident he can transfer his skillset across to England and emulate one player’s success.
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ByCharlie Smith Jun 13, 2025 Why Rios could become Frank’s own version of Dembele
Not many supporters would’ve envisaged the impact Belgian midfielder Mousa Dembélé would have at Tottenham after his £15m switch from Fulham back in 2012.
Former Tottenham midfielder Mousa Dembele.
However, such a deal would be one of the best deals in the club’s history, going on to make 250 appearances for the Lilywhites, scoring on ten occasions – but it was his talent in other areas that caught the eye.
He became a monster in and out of possession, often effortlessly gliding past the opposition, and being a commanding presence that was virtually impossible to dispossess.
Dembélé also thrived out of possession, handing the club a perfect box-to-box option, with numerous former players labelling him as the best player they’ve ever featured alongside.
However, after his subsequent departure to join Guangzhou City back in January 2019, the side has often lacked that presence, something which Rios could offer Frank in North London next season.
When comparing his stats from this season to those of Dembélé at Spurs, he’s managed to match or better him in numerous key areas – highlighting why he could be the man to fill the void.
Rios, who’s been labelled “one of the best midfielders” by one Brazilian analyst, has registered more goals and assists, along with more passes into the opposition box per 90, showcasing the threat he poses when driving with the ball.
Games played
24
28
Goals & assists
7
0
Passes into opposition box
1.9
0.2
Tackles won
1.9
1.2
% of tackles won
46%
24%
Take-ons completed
3.8
3.8
Fouls won
1.8
1.3
Aerials won
56%
39%
Described as a “ball-carrying machine” by data analyst Ben Mattinson, he also matched Dembélé for take-ons completed, whilst drawing more fouls, offering a constant nuisance to opposition players, something which Frank’s side need in the middle of the mark.
The Colombian’s talents don’t end there, winning more aerials and tackles per 90, handing the side a defensive presence that has often been missing in North London, with Rios the perfect option for the Lilywhites.
Whilst he has an £85m release clause in his current deal, it’s likely the 25-year-old will be available for a significantly lower fee, with Spurs needing to pursue a move for his signature.
If he can get anywhere near the levels produced by the Belgian at the club, he would be another sensational addition and one that could fire the club up the table in 2025/26.
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Tottenham Hotspur could be about to make a move for a star who could complete their potent attack.
Celtic are building for another successful campaign north of the border, but they may now have to field a proposal for one of their star players from the Premier League, according to a report.
Celtic finally announce Benjamin Nygren
Typically, Celtic are slow starters in the window as they prefer to take stock before acting on the market, but supporters will be heading into the weekend with a spring in their step following confirmation of Benjamin Nygren’s arrival.
Coming in from FC Nordsjælland on a five-year deal, the versatile attacker has vowed to impress the Bhoys’ support by creating plenty of chances as well as getting himself on the scoresheet, regardless of where he is deployed on the pitch.
He explained: “I feel amazing to have signed for Celtic, it’s so nice to be here. I’ve been looking forward to this so much.
“I’m a player who wants to create a lot of chances and go towards goal. I’m a link between the defence and the offence and I can run a lot. I’m an offensive-minded player but I also work hard and try to do my best in all parts of the game.”
With the recruitment wheels in motion at Parkhead, Celtic could make a move for Girona forward Bojan Miovski to settle their long-winded quest for a number nine following Kyogo Furuhashi’s departure in January.
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Nevertheless, they could also be set for outward movement in relation to their front line after turfing out a £500,000 bid from Bolton Wanderers for Irish striker Johnny Kenny.
Como’s advances for Celtic star Nicolas Kuhn have turned heads, though the Hoops could be set for another shock to the system amid Premier League interest in one of their most productive stars.
Brentford could submit imminent offer for Daizen Maeda
According to a report from Sportiva, cited by the Daily Record, Brentford could submit an imminent offer for Celtic forward Daizen Maeda after Keith Andrews took over at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Tottenham, Fenerbahçe and West Ham have all been tentatively linked with a move for the Japan international, but the Bees are now said to be in pursuit, even if they will give careful consideration to the finances behind any deal before proceeding, though it is suggested they could move for him in “immediate” fashion.
Daizen Maeda’s mercurial 2024/25 campaign at Celtic – all competitions
Appearances
51
Goals
33
Assists
12
Trophies
1x Scottish Premiership, 1x Premier Sports Cup
Labelled a “special player” by Alistair Johnston, Hoops favourite Maeda managed to direct 28 of his 57 shots on target last term and emerged as arguably Celtic’s most important player on the march to a domestic double.
Brendan Rodgers won’t be in a rush to lose his services, but a question mark over his future will continue to remain as his contract at Parkheads ticks down.
Two years remain on his current terms, so nailing Maeda down to a new long-term deal will be a central priority for the Irishman.